Skanska backs University of Kent’s innovative student work experience scheme.
Skanska is one of 111 leading companies and organisations offering work experience, internships and skills development sessions as prizes under the University’s annual Employability Points Scheme.
Jon Chown, Skanska’s Facilities Services Director joined the many guests, including nearly 330 students at the special awards ceremony on 31 May, at the University’s Canterbury campus. He presented the four highest scoring architectural students with the prize to join him on an exclusive tour, including lunch, at Heron Tower in London on the 17 June. The tour will offer a unique insight into this landmark Skanska construction project and the students will be able to see first hand the innovations in design that have led to a BREEAM Excellent standard for the building.
Jon Chown said: “Congratulations to our winners, they deserve it. As an employer, we often need something to differentiate one candidate from another. Those who are prepared to do something beyond the norm have that something extra which sets them apart. We are delighted to sponsor such a great scheme
The Employability Points scheme, now in its third year, enables students to earn clubcard-style points for activities ranging from community volunteering and mentoring to participating in events and workshops. This academic year has seen a record 2,400 students taking part.
Students receiving the most points under the scheme – thought to be unique in UK higher education - are then chosen by sponsoring employers for a range of work experience opportunities relevant to an individual’s skills.
Stephanie Barwick, the University’s Business Engagement Manager, said: “Employability Points works because it bridges the gap between offering students a way to enhance their own employability and providing employers with easy access to some of our outstanding students.”